Sydney Skeptics in the Pub - SPAMNET: HOW FAKE FACES ARE FOOLING THE INTERNET

Details

AI is now capable of generating hyper-realistic human faces that are nearly indistinguishable from real ones. Blurring the line between reality and fabrication, this growing phenomenon threatens digital identity, online trust, and the integrity of visual media.

In this talk, cognitive psychologist Dr James Dunn will explore the origins of this challenge and investigate a fascinating potential solution: super-recognisers — individuals with extraordinary facial recognition abilities. Could their unique skills show us a way to detect and defend against these deceptive AI creations?

Dr Dunn is a cognitive psychologist at UNSW in Sydney, where he studies how we recognise faces and make complex decisions, especially in high-stakes settings like policing and forensic science. His research explores why people think and perform differently, and how these differences matter in real life.

He works closely with government and industry collaborators, including the Australian Passport Office and the Australian Federal Police, to improve the fairness, accuracy and understanding of their processes and policies. His research not only advances our understanding of the human mind but also helps shape more trustworthy and unbiased AI systems. His work is supported by the Australian Research Council and the Office of National Intelligence.

After the presentation:
Following the presentation and question time, we will hand the microphone over to one audience member for a 5 minute chat on a sceptical topic of their choice. It can be a news item, your own sceptical "special subject" or an encounter with everyday scepticism. If you're interested in sharing something with your fellow pubbers, let Tim Mendham know before the talk.
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On the first Thursday of each month, Australian Skeptics and friends get together for Skeptics in the Pub. People generally start arriving at around 6pm after work. The talk begins at 7pm and lasts for about 30 minutes. The night finishes when the last person leaves.

Enjoy a meal and a drink accompanied by lively discussion, free spoon bending lessons and the company of other sceptics, as we cover a variety of interesting topics.

There is no need to belong to Australian Skeptics - all are welcome. Bring friends too.

Please take a moment to read our Code of Conduct:
https://www.skeptics.com.au/events/code-of-conduct/

REMINDER - If you are feeling ill or showing any signs or symptoms of a possible COVID (or indeed any) infection, please do not attend.

Parking is available nearby at: